Charter is only smarter under certain circumstances. The airlines are very competitive when it comes to carrying a lot of people, for long distances, to a limited number of destinations, and when time is not critical. So, traveling between two very distant, major cities, like Los Angeles and New York, or traveling overseas makes sense on the airlines.

But there are times when Charter makes a lot more sense. For example, when you have several places to go — but very little time; or, if there is more than one person going; or, if your destination is not a major hub; or, when the airline schedules just don’t fit your business schedule.

Before you can compare the costs of airline travel to Charter, consider the time and money you will save on overnight expenses – motels, meals, car rental and wages — and factor in the inconveniences you will face with the scheduled air carriers. Many times it is smarter to Charter.

Yes. For years, aviation has proven to be safer than driving your car. Our pilots must maintain standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and are checked a minimum of every six months. Plus, they are sent to simulator training to maintain a superior level of proficiency. This helps to maintain aviation as one of the safest forms of transportation.

Check around. Every charter operator must have a certificate from the FAA ensuring that the operation meets or exceeds the agency’s standards for aircraft maintenance, management control and keeping track of its crews’ training, flight time, and health. Also, ask for verification of the type and limits of insurance coverage carried by the operator. Tulip City Air Service’s certificate number is EBTA449D.

The pilot(s) must hold either a Commercial Pilot Certificate or an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate issued by the FAA, just as the major airline pilots do. Every six months he or she undergoes a mandatory proficiency check ride with an FAA inspector or designated examiner, who also verifies the pilot’s knowledge of specified routes and the aircraft being flown — just like the airlines.

TIME – You can fly in or leave whenever you would like without having to depend on the airline schedules or the long hours on the road. You can go where you need to, get your business done and come back when you want. This means saving money on food, lodging, and car rental. It could also mean spending more time with your valuable client…or your family.

CONVENIENCE – With charter you have direct access to all of the major airports, plus nearly 3,000 more airports in smaller communities that the airlines don’t reach. With a chartered aircraft you can often land whenever and wherever you want – usually much closer to the area you need to be. You can avoid the large, crowded airline hubs. Often, you can even have a car waiting on the ramp when you land.

SECURITY – As you know, security when flying the airlines is a major hassle. When you fly charter, you will be able to reduce the delay for security, plus have the added benefit of knowing all the people you’re flying with. On top of that, you’ll be able to spend time during the flight in confidential discussions without the worry of someone in another row overhearing your conversation.